Red-hot Rangers reply to Hoops’ net gains

Jermain Defoe says Rangers were fired up for their demolition job on Hibernian after watching Celtic’s blistering start to the season.

The Hoops have made their intentions clear as they kick off their quest for a ninth successive Premiership title by blasting 12 goals in their first two games.

But Steven Gerrard’s side responded in kind on Sunday, producing a ruthless display of their own as Hibs were thrashed 6-1 at Ibrox.

Hat-trick hero Defoe admitted after the match that the scoring exploits of their Old Firm rivals has not gone unnoticed.

Asked if Rangers felt under pressure to hit the goal trail after seeing what Neil Lennon’s team had produced so far, he said: “Of course, yes. You can’t ignore it – the way they’ve started and the amount of goals they’ve scored.

“It’s nice we’ve won the game so convincingly today. You don’t always have to score six or seven goals. It’s about getting three points but it is nice to win in that way.

“It’s good for the fans as well, as well as the new lads who’ve come in to get goals and assists. It’s good for the confidence.”

Defoe tucked home with his right foot, left foot and head to complete the perfect treble against Hibs. He made way with 14 minutes left and strike rival Alfredo Morelos scored twice after taking over. However, Defoe insists he will not throw the toys out of the pram is he does not keep his place for Thursday’s Europa League second leg against Midtjylland.

“Would I be disappointed not to start? Maybe when I was younger,” the 36-year-old said.

“You want to play as many games as you can but the manager is smart enough to know senior lads have to be managed.”